New Jersey Periodontist

Welcome to New Jersey Periodontist, an advanced, state-of-the-art dental facility specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease. Whether you suffer from mild gingivitis or advanced gum disease, our renowned periodontist, Dr. John R. Varoscak, can handle all of your periodontal needs.

Dr. John R. Varoscak, who received his periodontal training at Columbia University College of Dental Medicine, has been providing periodontal services for patients from the Northeast for over 30 years.

If you have any form of gum disease and want the comfort and security of an experienced periodontist, this is the office for you. Please explore our website and discover the many ways in which Dr. Varoscak and his team can treat your periodontal symptoms.

What is periodontal disease?

Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is a progressive inflammatory condition which affects the tissues and bone supporting the teeth. It is the leading cause of tooth loss among adults; in fact, three out of four adults are affected at some point in their lifetime by periodontal disease.

It begins when plaque (a bacteria laden biofilm) builds up around the teeth. Toxins in the plaque produce a bacterial infection which irritates and inflames the gum tissues. This infection gradually destroys the tissues and bone which support the teeth. Calcium from your saliva precipitates in the bacteria biofilm and hardens into a rough, porous mineral build-up called calculus (also known as tartar) and adheres to tooth surfaces. Calculus can accumulate above or below the gum line and causes further irritation to the gums. As the irritation continues, the gums become inflamed and engorged with blood. The puffy gums begin to separate from the teeth, causing pockets to form. These pockets provide an environment in which bacteria grow. If left untreated, the periodontal pockets deepen and hold even more bacteria and toxins.

As periodontal disease progresses, the bacteria move deeper into the gum tissue, leading to the destruction of the connective tissue and bone that supports the teeth. This can ultimately lead to shifting, loosening, and eventual loss of teeth. At the same time, bacteria and toxins enter your bloodstream where they can have a serious negative affect on your overall health.

How Periodontal Disease Destroys Your Teeth

The above jawbone, which is shown without overlying gum tissue, demonstrates just how destructive periodontal disease (also known as gum disease) can be.

As gum disease progresses it literally "melts" away the bony support surrounding the teeth. Sore, swollen gums that bleed easily are common signs and symptoms of gum disease.

Gum abscesses and abscessed teeth are also common symptoms of progressive gum disease. As the periodontal infection becomes more advanced, bacteria and bacteria laden toxins enter the bloodstream. This may have significant negative effects on other organ systems.

Recent research shows that periodontal disease can increase a patient's risk for heart attacks and strokes, as well as complicate the negative effects of diabetes.